Category: Preparation

Testing the Components of Your Solar Generator

Before we start mounting all the various electronic components into the Pelican case for our solar Generator, it is a good idea to make sure everything is working correctly. We definitely would not want to discover we have a defective invertor only after mounting it and wiring everything else up around it.

We just recently moved to a new property, and tucked away in an old out -building was this abandoned trailer. I was looking for a trailer small enough for the four wheeler to pull, and while this will need a little fixing up, I think it will be perfect for the job.

The trailer was full of junk, had a flat tire with one wheel partially buried, and mouse nest through-out the inside of the differential. It had definitely been sitting a while! Looking at the body shape and construction, it was originally built from a 47′- 54′ Chevrolet Pickup!

Prepping is a nickname for the act of preparing. Preppers is a label used to describe those who like to prepare for the unknown. This post will give a broad overview of the various components to a good, versatile survival plan, and hopefully start the wheels turning on your own preparation plans. A good strategy will also be beneficial to you and your family during everyday life, as well as actually save money.

The Rain Barrel collects rain water from the roof and its drainage system. The water it collects is not potable, and should not be used for drinking or cooking without filtration & disinfection.

Besides the ability of providing a source of emergency reserve water, the rain barrel provides a great source of water to use to water your lawn and garden. Any way to reduce your dependency on the utilities is a great thing. The rain barrel is one such way to reduce that dependency and save money on your water bill as well. Continue reading Earthminded RainStation Rain Barrel

Our technologies have developed at an astounding rate over the last 200 years. Also astounding, is how rapidly we are becoming completely dependent upon them. Electricity was not even widely available in homes until 1910-1920. Now, when the power goes out for more than a day or two, people often leave their homes and stay with family / friends that have power.

I decided to test out the UST StrikeForce Fire Starter. This is the best quality flint bar and striker we have seen. The outer construction is made of very sturdy ABS plastic and inside it contains a very large 1/2″ diameter flint bar. The striker is made from a thick piece of hardened steel. Together they produce nice large and very hot sparks.

Mikki and I try to do small things each day to be more self-sufficient. Sometimes these things double as a hobby. We have made a small vegetable garden and setup an herb planter in the backyard. We love the feeling of cooking with stuff we grew and harvested ourselves.

When planning for survival, or when you find yourself in a survival situation, it is important to prioritize your needs. Keeping a level head and focusing on what is most important first can serve as a distraction to keep panic from setting in.

One of my New Year resolutions is to continue to work on organizing my work areas. Here are 10 things that I have found have helped me immensely. Keep in mind I am still very much a work in progress, and it will be very apparent in the photos that follow!